The International Cricket Council (ICC) is the governing body of international cricket and is responsible for deciding the best players in the world.
In recent years, the ICC has been awarding the title of ‘Best Player in International Cricket’ to the cricketers who have made the most significant contribution to the sport in terms of performances and achievements.
The award is given to the players who have the best overall record over the course of a year and have made the biggest impact on the international cricketing arena.
Over the years, some of the most talented cricketers in the world have been recognized with this prestigious award. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best players in ICC’s history who have been awarded the title of ‘Best Player in International Cricket’.
1. Steve Smith
Steven Peter Devereux Smith is one of the most accomplished cricketers of the modern era. He is an Australian international cricketer and former captain of the Australian national team. Smith has achieved a great deal of success in his cricketing career.
He has a batting average of 61.37 in Test cricket, the highest ever for any batsman since the Second World War. He is the only batsman to have scored over 7000 Test runs in a single calendar year, and has scored 11 centuries in Tests.
Smith has also achieved success in the shorter formats of the game, having scored over 5000 runs in ODIs and over 1000 runs in T20Is.
In terms of captaincy, Smith led the Australian team to their 5th ICC ODI World Cup victory in 2015 and was the first Australian captain to lead the team to a series win in India in over 40 years.
He was also the first Australian captain to win a series in South Africa in 47 years.
Smith is considered one of the greatest captains of the modern era and has been widely praised for his leadership qualities and tactical acumen. In addition to cricket, Smith is an active member of the Australian cricket community and a strong advocate for the game.
He was the inaugural recipient of the Allan Border Medal in 2015 and is a patron of the Prime Minister’s XI. He is also an ambassador for the McGrath Foundation, a charity that provides support to families of those affected by breast cancer.
Smith’s achievements in cricket have been recognized with several awards and accolades, including the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy in 2015, the Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year in 2010, and the ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2015 and 2017.
He is also the only cricketer to be named Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World twice.
2. Babar Azam
Mohammad Babar Azam is one of the most accomplished and respected cricketers of the modern era. He is the current captain of the Pakistan national cricket team and is widely hailed for his outstanding batting performances in the field.
He is consistently ranked as one of the top batsmen in the world, having achieved the number one spot in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and the third spot in Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is).
Azam is also ranked fifth in Tests, further demonstrating his impressive credentials as a batsman. Azam’s achievements have been recognized at both a domestic and international level.
He has won numerous awards, including the prestigious PCB T20 Player of the Year award four times, and the PCB ODI Player of the Year award once.
Azam is also the first Pakistani batsman to score three centuries in successive ODI innings, and the first cricketer to score 2,000 T20I runs. Azam’s incredible success is built on his unwavering commitment to the sport and his dedication to improving his performance.
He works tirelessly to hone his technique, constantly striving to be the best player he can be.
His remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure have made him a fan favorite and a source of inspiration for aspiring cricketers all over the world. The Pakistani cricketer is undoubtedly one of the finest batsmen of the modern game, and his achievements are a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Azam’s outstanding performance has earned him the respect and admiration of cricket fans everywhere, and he is sure to continue producing world-class cricket for many years to come..
3. Joe Root
Joseph Edward Root, MBE is an English cricketer who plays for the English national team and has previously been the captain of the Test team. He is a right-handed batsman and occasional right-arm off-break bowler.
He is currently ranked as the world’s number-one Test batsman and is a regular part of the England team in all three formats of the game. Root is also a member of the Yorkshire County Cricket Club and plays for them in English domestic cricket.
He has been an integral part of Yorkshire’s success in the County Championship, helping them to win the competition in 2014. Root has been a reliable performer for England, scoring heavily in both Test and limited-overs cricket.
He has scored over 15,000 runs in international cricket, with over 7,000 of those coming from Test matches. He is also the first English batsman to score centuries in all three formats of the game.
Root has been an inspirational leader for England, captaining the team to victory in the 2019 Ashes series and helping them to the final of the 2019 World Cup. He is a highly valued member of the England team, and his achievements in the game have been recognized with an MBE.
4. Marnus Labuschagne
Marnus Labuschagne is an Australian cricketer who has reached the international level. He is a batsman and plays for the Australian national team in both Test matches and One Day Internationals (ODIs).
He also competes in domestic cricket for the Queensland team, as well as Glamorgan in county cricket and the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League.
Labuschagne has had a number of successes in the international arena, including becoming the first Australian batsman to score a double century since 2016. He has also been named Australia’s Player of the Series in both the 2019 Ashes and the 2020 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Labuschagne is renowned for his talent and his impressive batting statistics, which speak for themselves. He is an important member of the Australian cricket team and a key player both domestically and internationally.
5. Shakib Al Hasan
Shakib Al Hasan is a renowned cricketer from Bangladesh and is currently the captain of Bangladesh’s national cricket team.
He is well-known for his aggressive left-handed batting style in the middle order, as well as his slow left-arm orthodox bowling, which is known for its accuracy and control. Shakib Al Hasan has been playing international cricket since 2006 and is currently one of the most decorated cricketers in the world.
He has represented Bangladesh in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, and is the only cricketer to score more than 10,000 runs and take more than 400 wickets in all three formats combined. His aggression and skill in the middle order have earned him many accolades, including the title of “The Greatest All-Rounder of All Time”.
As a captain, Shakib Al Hasan is known for his tactical acumen and leadership, which have helped Bangladesh reach unprecedented heights in international cricket. He is also renowned for his ability to motivate his teammates and bring out the best from them.
Shakib Al Hasan is undoubtedly one of the most influential cricketers in Bangladesh and is an inspiration to many aspiring cricketers. He has helped Bangladesh ascend to the top of the cricketing world and will continue to be an integral part of the team’s future success.
6. Mitchell Starc
Mitchell Aaron Starc is an Australian professional cricketer who plays for the Australian national team and the New South Wales team in domestic cricket. He is a left-arm fast bowler and a left-handed batsman.
Starc has been an integral part of the Australian team since his debut in 2010. He has won several awards and accolades, including the Allan Border Medal in 2015 and the ICC Test Player of the Year in 2015.
He has also been part of the Australian team that won the 2015 Cricket World Cup. Starc has been one of the most successful bowlers for Australia in recent years. He has taken over 200 wickets in Test cricket, and over 300 in One Day Internationals.
He is also known for his ability to bowl toe-crushing yorkers, which makes him a valuable asset to the Australian team in the shorter formats of the game. Starc has also been an important member of the New South Wales team in the domestic circuit.
He has helped the team win several tournaments and was the leading wicket-taker in the 2015–16 Sheffield Shield season. Overall, Mitchell Aaron Starc is a valuable player for both the Australian national team and the New South Wales team in domestic cricket.
He is a talented left-arm fast bowler and a capable batsman and has been an important part of both teams’ success in recent years.
7. Shaheen Afridi
Shaheen Shah Afridi is a highly talented cricketer from Pakistan who has achieved great success in his cricketing career. He is known for his impressive bowling performances and has been a regular part of the Pakistan cricket team in all three formats of the game.
He represents the Pakistan national side in Test matches, One Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals. Shaheen has been highly successful in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) where he captains the Lahore Qalandars team.
He has been instrumental in leading his team to success with his all-round skills and determination. He is renowned for his ability to take wickets and also has the ability to score runs with the bat.
Shaheen has been a great asset to the Pakistan cricket team and a great ambassador to the game. His ability to inspire his teammates and his passion for the game have earned him many plaudits. He is a great example of what dedication and hard work can do to achieve success.
8. Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin is a renowned name in Indian cricket. He is an international cricketer who has represented the Indian cricket team in many international matches. At the domestic level, he plays for Tamil Nadu in the Ranji Trophy and other tournaments.
He is also a part of the Rajasthan Royals team in the Indian Premier League. Ashwin made his debut for the Indian cricket team in 2010 in a Test match against Sri Lanka. He has since gone on to become one of the most successful bowlers in the team’s history.
He is a right-arm off-spinner who specializes in spin bowling and is considered to be one of the best spinners in the world.
He has taken over 350 wickets in all formats of the game and is also known for his batting prowess, having scored over 3000 runs in all formats. Ashwin has won many awards and accolades throughout his career.
He was awarded the Arjuna Award in 2014, the Padma Shri in 2017 and he also won the ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2016.
He is also the first Indian cricketer to complete the ‘double’ of 300 Test wickets and 3000 Test runs. Overall, Ravichandran Ashwin is one of the most successful and respected cricketers in India.
He has been a major contributor to the Indian cricket team’s success in the international arena and has been a major asset in the Indian Premier League. He is an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and a role model for millions of cricket fans.
9. Daryl Mitchell
Daryl Joseph Mitchell is a renowned cricketer in New Zealand. He has made a name for himself in the cricketing world, both nationally and internationally. He is currently an active member of the New Zealand national cricket team and plays in all formats of the game.
He also represents Canterbury in domestic cricket. Mitchell was born to John Mitchell, an accomplished coach and former player of the New Zealand Rugby Union.
He is a proud son of his father and has taken inspiration from him to pursue his dream of becoming a professional cricketer. Despite his father’s fame in rugby union, Mitchell chose to make a name for himself in the cricketing world and he has certainly achieved that.
Mitchell has been playing cricket since his early childhood and has gone on to perform really well for the national team. He has been a regular member of the team and has been praised for his skills and his contribution to the team’s success.
With his passion and dedication, he has earned the respect of his teammates and fans alike. Overall, Daryl Joseph Mitchell is a highly accomplished cricketer in New Zealand. He has made a name for himself in the cricketing world and is the proud son of his father, John Mitchell.
His hard work and dedication has allowed him to perform really well for the national team and has earned him the respect of his teammates and fans.
10. Pat Cummins
Patrick James Cummins is an Australian cricketer who has been making waves in the international cricket arena. He is currently the captain of the Australian national cricket team in both Test and One Day International formats.
Cummins is a right-arm fast bowler and is widely regarded as one of the best bowlers in the Test cricket format. Cummins first made his debut in the international cricket arena in 2011.
Since then, he has been consistently performing well and has become a reliable asset for the Australian cricket team. He has been able to maintain a consistent line and length and has also been able to surprise batsmen with his pace and movement.
His ability to keep the batsmen guessing has made him one of the most sought after bowlers in the world. Cummins’ bowling style has been described as accurate and relentless.
He has been able to consistently deliver wicket-taking deliveries and has been able to contribute significantly to the Australian team’s success. He has also been able to take wickets at important times, which has made him a valuable asset for the team.
In addition to his bowling, Cummins has also been able to contribute with the bat in both Test and One Day International cricket. He has been able to hold his own in the batting order and has also been able to provide important breakthroughs with the ball.
He has been able to contribute significantly to the Australian team’s success in the international arena. Overall, Patrick James Cummins is an integral part of the Australian cricket team.
His all-round performance has been instrumental in helping the team achieve success in international cricket. He is currently regarded as one of the best bowlers in Test cricket and is sure to continue to make a significant contribution to the team for many more years.
11. Ben Stokes
Benjamin Andrew Stokes OBE is a renowned English international cricketer. He is the current captain of the England Test team and plays for the England Twenty20 & One Day International team.
At the domestic level, Stokes plays for Durham, a county in England, and has also had the opportunity to take part in several Twenty20 leagues around the world. He is widely respected for his impressive skill and leadership in the game.
Stokes began playing cricket at a young age and soon showed immense promise. As a result, he became part of the England Under-19 cricket team at age 17. His talent on the field soon led to him being selected in the England Test team in 2013.
Since then, he has gone from strength to strength, both as a player and a leader. As captain of the England Test team, Stokes has helped the team to great success, leading them to victory in the 2019 Ashes series against Australia.
He is also well known for his role in the 2019 World Cup, where he scored the winning runs in the final against New Zealand. In addition, he is a key figure in the England T20 and ODI teams.
Overall, Benjamin Andrew Stokes OBE is a shining example of how hard work and dedication can help an individual reach their full potential. He is an inspiration to aspiring cricketers around the world and a role model for the sport.
12. Rohit Sharma
Rohit Gurunath Sharma is a renowned Indian international cricketer and the current captain of the Indian men’s cricket team. He is considered to be one of the best batsmen of his generation and one of the greatest opening batsmen of all time.
His fame and success is due to his impeccable timing, elegant batting style, ability to hit sixes and his strong leadership skills. His timing is second to none and he is known for playing shots that are a delight to watch.
His elegant batting style is admired by fans and his peers alike and he confidently takes on the toughest of bowlers. Sharma is also known for his ability to hit powerful sixes with ease and accuracy.
His leadership skills are unrivaled and he is capable of guiding his team to victory. He is a true leader and has led the Indian team to many victories.
Rohit Gurunath Sharma is a true cricketing icon and he will continue to entertain the world with his skills and leadership for years to come.
13. Jacques Kallis
Jacques Henry Kallis is an esteemed South African cricket coach and former cricketer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time and one of the greatest all-rounders to ever play the game.
Kallis is a right-handed batsman and right-arm fast-medium swing bowler, which makes him a formidable opponent on the field. He has achieved a number of impressive stats throughout his career, including 13,289 runs in Test cricket, 25,534 runs in One Day Internationals and 577 wickets in both formats.
He is the only cricketer in the history of the game to score more than 11,000 runs and take more than 250 wickets in both Test and One Day Internationals. Kallis was also the first South African cricketer to score a century in all three formats of the game.
He was part of the South African team that won the ICC KnockOut Trophy in 1998 and was named as the man of the match in the final.
He was also part of the South African team that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 1998. Kallis was also famously part of the South African team that won the ICC World Cup in 2007.
He was awarded the Player of the Tournament for his exceptional batting and bowling performance throughout the tournament. Kallis’ achievements have seen him inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, as well as being named as one of the Wisden Cricketers of the Year in 2013.
He is also a member of the Order of Ikhamanga, a prestigious national honour awarded by the South African government. Kallis is a true cricketing legend and his achievements have cemented his place as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
14. Travis Head
Travis Michael Head is an Australian cricketer who plays for both the national team and for his domestic teams. He is a left-handed batsman and a part-time right arm off-spin bowler, and is known for his aggressive style of play.
He is currently contracted to South Australia and the Adelaide Strikers for domestic matches. Head is an all-rounder, capable of contributing with both the bat and the ball.
With the bat, he is an aggressive middle-order batsman, known for his powerful hitting, while with the ball he is a part-time off-spin bowler.
His bowling is not as strong as his batting, but he is still an important asset for his domestic teams. Head’s international career has been quite successful so far, as his aggressive batting style has seen him become a regular in the Australian international side.
He has played in numerous ODIs and Tests for Australia and has been an important part of their success in recent years.
He is currently ranked as the 8th best batsman in ODI cricket, and the 10th best in Tests. Overall, Travis Michael Head is an important player for both Australia and his domestic teams.
His aggressive batting style and part-time off-spin bowling make him a valuable asset in any side. He has been a key part of Australia’s success in recent years and is sure to continue to be an important player for both Australia and his domestic teams going forward.
15. Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada is an accomplished South African cricketer who has made his mark in all formats of the game. A right-arm fast bowler, Rabada has earned the respect of his peers and supporters with his skill and dedication to the sport.
He first made his international debut in November 2014 during a limited-overs cricket match.
After months of hard work, he made his Test debut in November 2015, solidifying his place in the cricketing world. Rabada’s impressive career has seen him take many wickets and earn numerous awards.
In 2017, he was named South African Cricketer of the Year and in 2018, he was named the ICC Test Player of the Year. He has also been included in the ICC ODI Team of the Year multiple times since 2016.
Rabada is an incredible athlete and his commitment to the game has earned him recognition both nationally and internationally.
16. Stuart Broad
Stuart Christopher John Broad is a notable figure in English cricket. He is a former English cricketer who played Test cricket for the England cricket team and was the One Day and Twenty20 International captain.
Broad has achieved much success in his cricketing career, having been a member of the England team that won the 2010 ICC World Twenty20.
The International Cricket Council awarded him the title of Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to cricket. Broad’s bowling has always been his strong point, and he has been a major contributor to England’s success in all forms of the game.
He has taken over 500 wickets in Test cricket, and over 300 wickets in One Day Internationals.
He is also a handy batsman, having scored six centuries and thirteen half-centuries in Test cricket. Overall, Broad has been a key player in the England cricket team for many years, and his leadership as captain has been invaluable.
He has been a major part of England’s success in the ICC World Twenty20, and his MBE title is a testament to his efforts and contributions to cricket.
17. Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindrasinh Anirudhsinh Jadeja, more commonly known as Ravindra Jadeja, is an Indian international cricketer. He plays for the Indian national cricket team in all formats of the game. He is an all-rounder, meaning he is proficient with both batting and bowling.
He bats left-handed, and bowls left-arm orthodox spin. This means that he bowls with a spin that is in the opposite direction to the right-handed batsman. Jadeja is a very talented cricketer and has been an integral part of the Indian team for many years.
He has been part of many successful campaigns for the Indian national team, including winning the ICC T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013.
He is also the recipient of multiple Man of the Match awards, including one in the 2019 ICC World Cup. Jadeja has become a fan favorite in India due to his aggressive batting style and his ability to pick up wickets with his orthodox spin bowling.
He is also renowned for his fielding, often making spectacular catches and run-outs. His popularity has grown to the point where he now has his own fan base, known as the ‘Jaddu Army’.
Overall, Ravindra Jadeja has established himself as one of the finest all-rounders in the world, and he continues to play a vital role in the success of the Indian cricket team.
18. Andrew Flintoff
Andrew Flintoff, commonly known as ‘Freddie’, is an English television and radio presenter and former international cricketer. His success in the sport of cricket was unparalleled, as he was one of the fiercest all-rounders in the game.
As a fast bowler, he had a knack for bowling accurate and fast deliveries which could do serious damage to the batsmen. His batting skills were also impressive, as he could hold his own against some of the best bowlers in the world.
His fielding was also top-notch, as he could take spectacular catches at slips. His impeccable talent in all facets of the game earned him an MBE in 2005. Flintoff’s influence in cricket can still be felt today, as he has inspired many people to pursue the sport.
19. Fakhar Zaman
Fakhar Zaman is a Pakistani professional cricketer who currently plays for the national cricket team of Pakistan as well as for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League.
He is regarded as one of the best batsmen in the country and has achieved numerous feats in his cricketing career.
Zaman made his international debut for the Pakistan cricket team in 2017, and since then he has established himself as one of the most consistent batsmen in the nation. He has scored several centuries and half-centuries in both Test and One Day International matches.
He is known for his attacking batting style and is often seen as a reliable batsman for his side. Furthermore, Zaman has also represented Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League since 2018, playing a key role in his team’s success.
He has scored many runs in the league and has been instrumental in helping his side reach the playoffs. In conclusion, Fakhar Zaman is a highly talented cricketer who has been a vital part of the Pakistani cricket team and the Lahore Qalandars.
20. Rassie van der Dussen
Hendrik Erasmus “Rassie” van der Dussen is a South African professional cricket player who is currently playing for both the South African national cricket team and Gauteng in domestic cricket.
He has been known for his exceptional performances and has earned a lot of admiration from cricket fans and experts around the world. In the 2018 South African Cricket Annual, he was honored with the title of one of the five Cricketers of the Year.
This recognition is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. Rassie van der Dussen has proven himself to be a formidable batsman. He has a keen eye for the ball and has the ability to hit the ball hard and accurately.
He has also shown great patience and discipline when batting, which is essential for any successful cricket player.
Rassie van der Dussen has proven himself to be a dependable all-rounder as well, capable of bowling economically and picking up wickets. Rassie van der Dussen’s hard work and dedication has been rewarded with selection in the national cricket team.
He has gone on to become an integral part of the team over the past few years, playing a major role in the team’s success. His performances have garnered the praise of cricket experts and fans alike.
His inclusion in the 2018 South African Cricket Annual’s list of Five Cricketers of the Year is a testament to his skill and commitment to the sport.
21. Imam-ul-Haq
Imam-ul-Haq is an exceptional cricketer from Pakistan. He made his international debut in an One Day International (ODI) match against Sri Lanka.
On this debut, he achieved a remarkable feat by becoming the second batsman from Pakistan, and thirteenth overall, to score a hundred on debut.This is a remarkable accomplishment for any cricketer, especially on debut. It is a testament to the skill and talent of Imam-ul-Haq.
He is one of the many talented cricketers from Pakistan and is sure to go far in the world of cricket. His debut century is an indication of his skill and potential as a world-class cricketer.Imam-ul-Haq has the potential to become one of the greats of the game.
He is already making a name for himself in the cricketing circles and will be watched closely in the future for his performances. His debut century is sure to be remembered for a long time and will serve as an inspiration for upcoming cricketers.
22. Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill is an Indian cricketer who is currently making waves in the world of cricket. He is part of the Indian national cricket team and has represented the country in international tournaments.
He has also been a part of the Indian Premier League, playing for the Gujarat Titans. In domestic cricket, he plays for the Punjab team. Gill is considered one of the most promising young players in the game today.
His skillful batting has earned him praise from all corners of the cricketing world. He is known for his aggressive yet composed batting style and is capable of playing a range of shots.
His impressive performances in the IPL have earned him plenty of recognition and he is now regarded as one of the top batsmen in the league. Apart from his impressive batting, he is also an agile fielder.
He has the ability to take sharp catches and has saved plenty of runs in the field. He is an all-round asset to any team and is sure to make a mark on the international stage in the years to come. Shubman Gill is certainly a name to watch out for in the future.
He has already achieved a lot in his short career and is sure to go on to become one of India’s top cricketers in the years to come.
23. Mohammad Nabi
Mohammad Nabi Eisakhil is a dedicated and talented cricketer from Afghanistan. He is a former captain of the Afghanistan national cricket team and has made a great contribution to the sport in his country.
Nabi is an attacking batting all-rounder, meaning that he has the ability to both bat and bowl with vigor and accuracy. He is a right-handed batsman and an off-break bowler, which is a type of bowling that uses spin and changes in pace to deceive the batsman.
Nabi has played a vital role in the development of cricket in Afghanistan, and has helped to popularize the sport in the region. He is a true ambassador for the sport, and his commitment to cricket in the country has been an inspiration to many.
24. Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza Butt is a professional cricketer who has represented both Pakistan and Zimbabwe in international matches. He is primarily a right-handed batsman, but also bowls right arm off-spin as an all-rounder.
Raza made his international debut for Zimbabwe in May 2013 and prior to that, he had emigrated to the country with his family in 2002. He was born in Sialkot, Pakistan and is now one of the most successful cricketers from Zimbabwe.
He has played in many international matches and has scored more than 1,500 runs in international cricket for Zimbabwe. Raza has also been part of the Pakistan Super League, where he plays for the Lahore Qalandars.
He is an experienced player and has been part of the Zimbabwean cricket team for many years. His all-rounder abilities have been highly praised by many cricket experts.
Overall, Sikandar Raza Butt is an experienced and successful international cricketer who has represented both Pakistan and Zimbabwe in international matches. He is an all-rounder and has been part of the Pakistan Super League as well.
He is a great asset to the Zimbabwean cricket team and has scored more than 1,500 runs in international cricket for Zimbabwe.
25. Axar Patel
Akshar Rajeshbhai Patel, more commonly known as Axar Patel, is an Indian international cricketer. He is an all-rounder, meaning he has the ability to contribute to the team with both batting and bowling.
This has made him a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team, which he plays for in all formats of the game. Axar Patel is also a part of the Gujarat domestic cricket team, where he has proven himself to be a reliable bowler and a consistent contributor with the bat.
His performances for Gujarat have earned him a spot in the Delhi Capitals team in the Indian Premier League.
He has been an integral part of the team, and his performances in the IPL have helped the Delhi Capitals reach the playoffs in the past few seasons. Overall, Axar Patel is an extremely talented cricketer who has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team in all formats of the game, as well as to Gujarat and the Delhi Capitals in domestic and IPL cricket respectively.
He is a reliable and consistent all-rounder who is sure to make an impact on the game for many years to come.
26. Wanindu Hasaranga
Pinnaduwage Wanindu Hasaranga de Silva, commonly known as Wanindu Hasaranga, is a professional cricketer who plays for the Sri Lanka cricket team in white ball cricket. He is a right-arm leg spinner, which means he bowls with his right arm and spins the ball with his leg.
It is a skill that not many possess, but Wanindu Hasaranga has perfected it. Hasaranga made his international debut for Sri Lanka in July 2017, making an immediate impact with bat and ball.
In his first series, he scored 41 runs and took 3 wickets in the T20I series against Zimbabwe.
His impressive performances earned him the Man-of-the-Match award in the third T20I. Since then, Hasaranga has gone on to become a key member of the Sri Lanka cricket team, playing in both ODIs and T20Is.
He is known for his ability to take wickets at crucial times and for his batting prowess, often scoring vital runs down the order.
He has even been named in the ICC’s ‘Team of the Tournament’ for the 2019 World Cup Qualifiers. Wanindu Hasaranga is a talented cricketer who has had a huge impact on the Sri Lanka cricket team.
He is a great example of a young player who has taken his chance and used it to great effect.
27. Muttiah Muralitharan
Deshabandu Muttiah Muralitharan is a Sri Lankan cricket legend who is widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers of all time. He is also known by the names Muralidaran and Murali.
He is a former professional cricketer, a cricket coach, a businessman, and a member of the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. Muttiah Muralitharan had a long and successful career in cricket, having played for Sri Lanka from 1992 to 2011 in both Test and One Day Internationals.
He held the records of most wickets taken in both formats of the game.
He was a key part of the Sri Lankan team that won the World Cup in 1996 and was also an integral part of the team that made it to the finals of the 2007 tournament. Muttiah Muralitharan also held the record for most wickets taken in Tests and One Day Internationals.
He was the first bowler to take 500 wickets in Test cricket and 800 wickets in One Day Internationals. He also holds the record for most five-wicket hauls in both formats of the game.
Muttiah Muralitharan is now a successful businessman and cricket coach who is actively involved in the development of cricket in Sri Lanka. He is a member of the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, which is a huge honour for him and a testament to his immense contribution to the game.
28. Viv Richards
Sir Isaac Vivian Alexander Richards is an iconic figure in the world of cricket. He is a retired cricketer from Antigua who played for the West Indies cricket team between 1974 and 1991.
His batting style was regarded as one of the finest ever seen and he was a dominant figure in the West Indies team, usually batting at number three.
He is widely considered to be one of the greatest batsmen of all time. Richards was a master of all facets of batting, making him one of the most complete batsmen ever to take the field. He had a wide range of shots, from the trademark pull shots to the classic cover drives.
He also had a great eye for the ball, allowing him to hit the gaps with precision. His timing was impeccable, as he was able to hit the ball with perfect placement. He was also a master of the mental side of the game, able to remain composed in tense situations.
His ability to read the game and anticipate the opposition’s next move was unparalleled.
He was a leader in the dressing room, inspiring his teammates to perform to their best. Richards was awarded numerous accolades for his accomplishments on the cricket field, including the Knight of the National Hero Order in 1988, an OBE in 1989, and an OOC in 1991.
He is a living legend in the cricketing world and will always be remembered for his outstanding contribution to the game.
29. Imran Khan
Imran Ahmad Khan Niazi is a Pakistani national who served as the 22nd prime minister of the country from 2018 to 2022. He is also the founder and chairman of the political party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf. Khan hails from a family of Niazi Pashtuns from the city of Lahore.
He was educated at Keble College, Oxford, where he graduated with a degree. Khan was a successful cricketer before venturing into politics. He captained the Pakistan cricket team which won the 1992 World Cup.
In his political career, Khan has been an advocate of human rights and anti-corruption measures. He is also a strong proponent of democracy and has worked to strengthen the Pakistani economy and reduce poverty.
Khan has been a vocal supporter of women’s rights and education in Pakistan and has been active in efforts to improve the country’s infrastructure.
He has also been involved in various charitable efforts, such as providing support to those affected by natural disasters in the country.
30. Curtly Ambrose
Sir Curtly Elconn Lynwall Ambrose KCN is a renowned former cricketer who played for the West Indies team. He was born in Antigua and spent most of his playing career with them.
He is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time and was known for his tall, upright stance and his ability to move the ball both ways. Ambrose played 98 Test matches for the West Indies, taking 405 wickets at an average of 20.99, with a best bowling performance of 7/25.
He was also an effective lower-order batsman, scoring 1,177 runs with two half-centuries.
His career statistics make him one of the most successful players in the history of the game. Ambrose is widely respected for his achievements and contributions to the game and was awarded the Knight of St. Andrew in 2004.
He was also inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2012. His remarkable career is a testament to his skill and determination, and he is remembered fondly by fans of the game all over the world.
31. Glenn McGrath
Glenn Donald McGrath is one of the most renowned and celebrated cricketers in Australian history. Nicknamed “Pigeon” during his playing career, he was a fast-medium-pace bowler who played for Australia for 14 years.
During that time, he was widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers of all time and was a key contributor to Australia’s domination of world cricket from the mid-1990s to the late 2000s.McGrath was born in Dubbo, New South Wales and made his international debut in 1993 in a One Day International match against New Zealand.
He went on to play in three World Cups, winning two championships in 1999 and 2003.
He was also a member of the team that won the Ashes series four times. Throughout his career, McGrath was known for his accuracy and skill at bowling out batsman after batsman with his fast-medium pace.
He was also a master of reverse swing, which made him an even more dangerous opponent.
He was a consistent performer for Australia, taking over 500 wickets in both Test and One Day International matches. In 2008, he retired from international cricket and was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his services to cricket.
He is the only bowler in history to reach 500 wickets in Test cricket. To this day, he is remembered as one of the best bowlers in the game and a major factor in Australia’s cricket dominance.
32. Mohammad Rizwan
Mohammad Rizwan is an exceptional Pakistani cricketer who has been representing his country in international cricket since 2015. He currently captains the Pakistan Super League franchise Multan Sultans.
Rizwan has achieved a remarkable feat in T20s by becoming the only batter to score 2000 runs in a calendar year.
This is an incredible accomplishment and sets him apart from the rest of the players in the league. Rizwan has established himself as one of the most consistent batters in the league and is an invaluable asset to the Pakistan Super League.
He has a batting average of over 40 and has scored centuries in both T20s and One-Day Internationals. His ability to read the game and adjust his batting style accordingly has helped him score runs consistently.
He is also a great fielder and a capable wicketkeeper, making him a complete package for any cricket team. Rizwan’s consistency and determination have made him one of the most sought-after cricketers in the world.
His commitment to the game and his country has earned him recognition and respect from fans and cricketing experts alike.
He has shown that he has the skill and the drive to be one of the best cricketers in the world and his record-breaking 2000 runs in a calendar year is a testament to that.
33. Kumar Sangakkara
Kumar Chokshanada Sangakkara is a legendary cricketer hailing from Sri Lanka. He is considered to be one of the greatest batsmen and wicket-keepers to ever play the game.
His impressive accomplishments on the field earned him the respect and admiration of cricket fans all over the world. He was a master of both batting and wicket-keeping, and he was also known for his leadership skills.
Sangakkara was the captain of the Sri Lanka National Cricket team for a period of time. He also served as the President of the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) for a brief period. Sangakkara’s impressive career has been recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
He has been inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor that is bestowed on few cricketers. Sangakkara’s place in cricketing history is secure. He was an outstanding cricketer and leader who made an immense contribution to the sport.
He will always be remembered as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
34. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli is a celebrated Indian cricketer who has made an indelible mark on the sport. He has been the captain of the Indian national cricket team and is renowned for his excellent batting skills.
He is considered one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket, and his skill in the sport has earned him immense respect and admiration. Kohli has achieved success both in international and domestic cricket.
He is a part of the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and plays for Delhi in domestic cricket. His skill and ability to perform under pressure has been well-documented in various matches.
He is renowned for his ability to stay calm and composed in tight situations, enabling him to lead his team to victory. Kohli’s popularity has earned him several endorsements and sponsorships from various companies.
His immense popularity has earned him a huge fan base from all over the world. He is an inspiration to many young cricketers, and his achievements and performances have been an inspiration to many. He is a symbol of hard work, determination and excellence in the sport.
35. Zeeshan Maqsood
Zeeshan Maqsood is a Pakistani-born cricketer who currently plays for the Oman national cricket team. He has been a member of the national team since 2012, and has since gone on to become the team’s captain.
His impressive skills on the cricket pitch have enabled him to represent Oman in both the 2016 and 2021 ICC Men’s T20 World Cups.
Maqsood has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the Oman team, and his leadership skills have enabled the team to achieve a great deal of success at the international level.
He is a great role model for aspiring young cricketers, and his dedication to the game is an example of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.
36. Rashid Khan
Rashid Khan Arman is an impressive figure in the world of cricket. He is an Afghan international cricketer and the captain of the Afghanistan national team in T20I format. He is the youngest cricketer ever to be appointed as captain of a national team.
He has made an incredible impact since making his debut in 2015, and his performances have earned him praise and recognition from fans and players alike.In his short time as captain, Rashid Khan Arman has helped Afghanistan to secure victories against some of the strongest teams in world cricket, including Zimbabwe, Scotland, and Ireland.
He has also been instrumental in guiding Afghanistan to their first T20I series victory against the West Indies in 2017.
His leadership and tactical acumen have been praised by many cricket analysts. Rashid Khan Arman has also achieved personal success, becoming the youngest player to take 100 wickets in T20I cricket.
He was also the fastest to take 50 wickets in ODIs and has won four man of the match awards in T20Is.
His ability to bowl spin effectively has been hailed as one of the best in the world. Rashid Khan Arman’s successes as captain and player have made him a role model for cricket fans in Afghanistan, and his influence has spread across the world.
He is an inspiration to aspiring cricketers, and his passion and dedication to the game have made him a household name.
37. Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Jasbirsingh Bumrah is an Indian international cricketer who has become one of the most talked-about players in the world of cricket. He plays for the Indian national cricket team in all formats of the game.
Bumrah is a right-arm fast bowler and is renowned for his unique bowling action.
His action is said to be so distinct that it allows him to generate more pace and accuracy than any other bowler in the game. Bumrah has been a key member of the Indian cricket team since his debut in 2013 and has been instrumental in helping India to numerous victories.
He has been a regular wicket-taker for India and has consistently delivered impressive performances in both domestic and international cricket. His ability to bowl accurate yorkers and slower balls with equal ease has made him one of the most feared bowlers in the world.
He is also known for his accuracy and control over his line and length. Bumrah has also been successful in limited-overs cricket, often taking crucial wickets at the death.
He has been a consistent performer in the Indian Premier League and has taken a number of match-winning spells for his teams. His consistent performances have earned him recognition as one of the best bowlers in the world.
He has also been named in the ICC Test and ODI teams of the year on multiple occasions. Overall, Jasprit Jasbirsingh Bumrah is one of the most talented and sought-after bowlers in the world of cricket.
His unique bowling action and ability to take wickets in all formats of the game has made him a valuable asset to the Indian cricket team.
He is a key member of the Indian cricket team, and his impressive performances have earned him the recognition as one of the best bowlers in the world.
38. James Anderson
James Michael Anderson OBE is a professional English cricketer who plays at the highest level of international cricket for England. He has played in the Test cricket team for England, as well as England’s limited-overs teams.
At the domestic level, Anderson represents Lancashire County Cricket Club. He is an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his services to cricket. Anderson began his cricketing career at a young age, playing for Lancashire talent squads and county age-level teams.
His performances at the domestic level earned him a call-up to the England Under-19s team, where he made his international debut in 2002.
He quickly established himself as an integral part of the team and was selected for the England Test side in 2003. Since then, Anderson has been a key figure for England’s cricket team both in Test and limited overs cricket.
He is the all-time leading wicket taker for England and is the eighth highest wicket-taker in Test cricket history.
He has been a regular fixture in the team for nearly two decades and is one of the most experienced players in the side. Anderson’s skill and longevity have seen him recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including an OBE in 2019.
He is widely respected within the cricketing world and is one of the most recognizable faces in English cricket.
39. Harry Brook
Harry Cherrington Brook is an accomplished English cricketer who has made a name for himself in the sport. He currently plays international cricket for England and domestic cricket for Yorkshire. Brook is primarily a right-handed batsman, but he also bowls right-arm medium pace.
His playing style is known for its accuracy and power, making him a valuable asset to any team. Brook made his international debut for England in January 2022 and has since established himself as an important member of the team.
He has been involved in a number of successful performances and is widely regarded as one of the most reliable batsmen in the team. His experience and talent have enabled him to become one of the most sought-after players in the sport.
Brook is currently one of the highest-ranked batsmen in the world and has enjoyed a successful career so far. He has been involved in some of the most iconic matches in cricket and has contributed a great deal to England’s success over the years.
His ability to handle pressure and remain consistent in his performances makes him an invaluable asset to the team.
40. Usman Khawaja
Usman Tariq Khawaja is an Australian cricketer who has had a successful career representing both Australia and his home state of Queensland.
He first made his debut in first-class cricket for New South Wales in 2008 and then went on to make his international debut for Australia in January 2011.
Since then, Khawaja has become one of the most reliable batsmen in the Australian cricket team and has earned respect from both fans and his peers alike. He is an established part of the Australian squad in all three formats of the game, Test, ODI and T20I.
Khawaja has also represented the Queensland Bulls in the domestic league and has been their highest run-scorer in most seasons.
His performances for Australia and Queensland have not gone unnoticed and he has been awarded the Allan Border Medal and the Bradman Young Cricketer of the Year Award in the past.
41. Ricky Ponting
Ricky Thomas Ponting AO is one of Australia’s most successful and recognizable cricket personalities.
He was a professional cricketer for almost 20 years, and in that time he captained the Australian national team in both Test cricket and One Day Internationals (ODIs) for almost a decade from 2004 to 2011.
During his time as captain, Ponting led the national team to two World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007, as well as numerous series victories. Ponting was a right-handed batsman and right-arm fast-medium bowler, who was widely respected both as a player and a leader.
He is the most successful Test captain in history and the second-most capped player in Test cricket, with a total of 168 matches.
He also holds the record for most catches by a non-wicketkeeper in Test cricket, with a total of 156. Ponting has also been involved in coaching since his retirement from playing and is currently the head coach of the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League.
He also regularly provides commentary and analysis on cricket matches. His immense knowledge and experience in the game are invaluable assets to those who seek to learn more about cricket.
42. Aiden Markram
Aiden Kyle Markram is a prominent figure in South African cricket. He is the current captain of the South African national cricket team in Twenty20 International cricket.
His leadership was instrumental in the success of the South African under-19 cricket team in 2014 when they won the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
Markram’s ability to lead and motivate his team was apparent in the way they achieved their win, with Markram himself leading from the front. His experience and knowledge of the game enabled the team to perform at their best, and as a result, they were crowned champions.
Markram is a respected leader in the South African cricket team, and his captaincy is something that is admired by many. He has shown his ability to lead and guide his team to success, and his accomplishments are something to be proud of.
43. Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock is a renowned South African cricketer and former captain of the Proteas, the South African national cricket team, in all three formats, namely Test, ODI and T20. He is a wicket-keeper batsman, renowned for his free-flowing and attacking style of batting.
De Kock currently plays for South Africa in limited-overs cricket, while representing Titans at the South African domestic level and Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
He has achieved great success in both international and domestic cricket, having scored over 10,000 runs in international cricket, including nine centuries, and over 8,000 runs in domestic cricket.
De Kock has been an integral part of the South African team for the past decade, with his aggressive batting and wicket-keeping skills. He has captained the Proteas in all three formats, leading them to victory in numerous matches.
His leadership skills have been praised by many, with former South African captain Graeme Smith calling him “one of the most talented players I have ever seen.” De Kock is also an experienced IPL player, having played for the Lucknow Super Giants since 2016.
He has been a consistent performer in the IPL, having scored over 1,000 runs in the tournament. He has also been an impressive wicket-keeper, taking some of the best catches in the tournament.
Quinton de Kock is an outstanding cricketer and has achieved great success in both international and domestic cricket. He is a former captain of the Proteas, a prolific batsman, and an experienced wicket-keeper, all of which make him a valuable asset to any team.
44. Aubrey Faulkner
George Aubrey Faulkner DSO was an extraordinary individual who was not only a talented cricketer but also a brave soldier. He was born in South Africa and was part of the South African cricket team, playing 25 Test matches for his country.
He also fought in both the Second Boer War and World War I. Faulkner was an all-rounder on the cricket field. He was considered to be one of the best batsmen in the world during his peak and was one of the first leg spin bowlers to use the googly.
His all-round skills made him a formidable opponent on the cricket field and his bowling style was innovative and revolutionary. Faulkner was also a brave soldier who fought for his country in two world wars, a testament to his courage and commitment.
He served in the South African Defence Force during the Boer War and later served with the British Army in World War I. Faulkner’s dedication and commitment to his country and his sport is evident in his courage and skill, making him an inspirational figure.
His achievements in cricket and his bravery in the battlefield make him an exemplary role model for future generations.
45. Jason Holder
Jason Holder is a Barbadian cricketer who is highly respected for his ability as an all-rounder. He is capable of bowling right-arm medium-fast and his skill set is such that he is able to play in all three formats of the game.
Holder is particularly impressive as a batsman, being able to score runs quickly as well as defend his wicket. Holder’s abilities as an all-rounder have been recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC).
In January 2019, Holder was rated as the best all-rounder in the world according to the ICC Test rankings.
This shows that Holder is held in high regard within the cricketing world, and is considered to be one of the top all-rounders in the game. Holder was also the captain of the West Indies cricket team from 2014 to 2019.
During this period, he lead the team to several victories, with his most notable being the 2016 World T20 Cup. In this tournament, the West Indies defeated England in the final to become champions.
This highlighted the leadership ability of Holder as well as the strength of his team. Overall, Jason Holder is undeniably one of the best all-rounders in the world and is highly respected for his cricketing abilities.
His impressive performances have seen him become the number one all-rounder in the ICC Test rankings, as well as captaining the West Indies to victory in the 2016 World T20 Cup.
46. Kyle Mayers
Kyle Rico Mayers is a Barbadian cricketer who has made his mark in international cricket. He currently plays for the West Indies cricket team, in all formats, and has recently been selected for the West Indies under-19 squad for the 2012 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup.
Mayers made his Test debut in February 2021 and made a remarkable statement with his performance. He scored an impressive 210 not out, a feat that few players can boast. His ability to stay composed and focused while batting speaks volumes about his talent and determination.
Mayers has already proven himself to be a valuable asset to the West Indies cricket team, and it is likely that he will continue to make his mark in the years to come.
47. David Warner
David Andrew Warner is a professional cricketer from Australia. He has represented his country in international cricket since 2009 and has been a regular member of the Australian national team ever since.
Warner has been a successful batsman in both Test and limited overs formats and has been an important part of the Australian squad in the past decade. Warner has also been an influential figure in Australian cricket and has held various leadership roles in the national team.
He was appointed as the vice-captain of the Australian team for the Test format in 2015 and then went on to become the captain of the team in the limited overs format in 2016.
He was an effective leader during his tenure and was instrumental in helping the team win several matches and tournaments.
Overall, David Andrew Warner has been a key contributor to Australian cricket over the past decade and continues to be a formidable presence in the national team.
He is a true leader on and off the field and is respected by his teammates for his passion and dedication to the sport.
Conclusion
The International Cricket Council’s rankings for the best players in the world are very competitive and constantly changing.
While there is no single definitive answer to the question of who is the best player in the world, one can say that Virat Kohli is certainly one of the top contenders.
His consistent performance, leadership qualities, and ability to lead his team to victory make him a formidable opponent on the field. Therefore, it can be said that Virat Kohli is one of the best players in the International Cricket Council.
